Protein Pasta Bake with Cottage Cheese & Ground Beef (Print Version)
High-protein Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with ground beef. A satisfying, easy-to-make dinner packed with flavor and nutrients for a wholesome meal.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ Hearty Foundation & Aromatics
01 -
1 lb lean ground beef (93/7)
02 -
12 oz whole wheat penne pasta
03 -
1 large yellow onion, diced
04 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
→ Creamy Protein Core
05 -
24 oz (3 cups) low-fat cottage cheese (1% or 2%)
06 -
1 large egg
07 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
08 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
→ Rich Tomato Sauce & Seasonings
09 -
28 oz can crushed tomatoes
10 -
2 tbsp tomato paste
11 -
1 tsp dried oregano
12 -
1 tsp dried basil
13 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
14 -
Salt and pepper to taste
→ Golden Baked Topping
15 -
1 1/2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 12 oz whole wheat penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside. This initial step sets the stage for your delicious Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef.
02 -
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown 1 lb lean ground beef (93/7) over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat. Add 1 large yellow onion, diced, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in 4 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 1 minute more.
03 -
Stir in 28 oz can crushed tomatoes, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) to the beef mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld for your Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake.
04 -
In a medium bowl, combine 24 oz (3 cups) low-fat cottage cheese (1% or 2%), 1 large egg, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. This creamy, protein-rich mixture is a key component of the bake.
05 -
Spread half of the cooked penne pasta evenly in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with half of the meat sauce, then dollop half of the cottage cheese mixture over it. Repeat these layers with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, and cottage cheese mixture.
06 -
Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese evenly over the top layer. Cover the baking dish loosely with foil. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
07 -
Let the Cottage Cheese Protein Pasta Bake with Ground Beef rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to portion and ensuring a perfect slice every time. Garnish with extra fresh parsley if desired.
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra boost of vegetables, sauté diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onion in Step 2.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
03 -
Serve this hearty pasta bake with a fresh green salad and a slice of crusty whole-grain bread for a complete and balanced meal.
04 -
Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for the topping instead of just mozzarella.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet
02 -
Large pot
03 -
9x13 inch baking dish
04 -
Mixing bowls
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 641 kcal
Total Fat: 22 g
Total Carbohydrate: 58 g
Protein: 51 g